Zelensky Vows to Prevail: Ukraine’s Fight Against Russian Invasion Continues Despite Ordeals
One Year On: Ukraine Remains Defiant in the Face of Russian Invasion
As Ukraine marks one year since the invasion by Russian forces, President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed confidence in the country’s ability to overcome the aggression. Despite fears of an attack on the anniversary, Western leaders have stepped up their support for Kyiv, with G7 ministers discussing new sanctions on Russia, and the UN General Assembly voting on a motion calling for “lasting” peace. The United States has announced “sweeping” new sanctions against Russia. Zelensky has vowed to continue the fight against those who brought “this evil, this war to our land.” In the face of relentless attacks on energy infrastructure and the continued presence of Russian troops at Ukraine’s doorstep, residents remain defiant.
The Threat of Further Violence
Ahead of the war’s first anniversary, Ukraine’s military intelligence chief, Kyrylo Budanov, warned that Russia was planning a missile attack on Friday to mark the day. In Moscow, President Vladimir Putin promised victory as he laid flowers at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier before meeting soldiers in Red Square. Putin has likened his offensive to Moscow’s fight against Nazi Germany in 1941-1945 and insists that Russia’s “unbreakable unity is the key to our victory.”
A Country Divided
Many Russians have embraced Putin’s rhetoric of an ongoing conflict with the West, with one 48-year-old guard, Lyubov Yudina, telling AFP that “the country is really changing for the better.” Others, however, believe the country is heading in the wrong direction. Ruslan Melnikov, a 28-year-old teacher, said, “I don’t see any future now. I do not see why I would have children, for what reason I would have children now?”
The Toll of the Conflict
The year-long conflict has devastated swathes of Ukraine, turned Russia into a pariah in the West, and is estimated to have caused over 150,000 casualties on either side. The G7 has increased its commitment to budget and economic support to $39 billion, and further sanctions are planned to be unveiled around the anniversary. The United Nations was expected to vote on a resolution demanding Russia withdraw troops from Ukraine. While non-binding, the vote will lay out the extent of support for Kyiv around the world. Spain’s Prime Minister, Pedro Sanchez, announced plans to send up to ten Leopard tanks to Ukraine in the coming months, joining other European countries in sending battle tanks to help repel Russian forces. Russia has denounced the growing arms deliveries to Ukraine, saying they only lead to escalation.
As Ukraine marks one year since the Russian invasion, the country remains defiant, with President Zelensky expressing confidence in its ability to overcome the aggression. However, fears of further violence remain, and Western leaders have stepped up their support for Kyiv, with new sanctions and increased financial support. Despite the devastating toll the conflict has taken on both sides, Ukraine remains committed to resisting Russian aggression and upholding its sovereignty.
Read on for more breaking news
